The Ekiti State Government has launched a free healthcare programme for over 19,000 retirees.
The state Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, disclosed this in a statement posted on X handle of the state government on Thursday.
The statement read, “Ekiti State Government has launched free healthcare services for more than 19,000 pensioners who previously worked in the State and Local Government Public Services.
“This initiative is part of the State Insurance Scheme, and it was announced by the state Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani #okeanaye, during a meeting at the Pensioners’ Secretariat in Ado-Ekiti.
“The commissioner further stated the need for all pensioners to make themselves available for sensitisation, understand the process, and know the centres to access medical care.”
According reported in February that the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, unveiled the N12bn Economic Relief Programme to alleviate the hardship being experienced by people of the state in the face of the current global economic downturn.
The Economic Relief Programme was said to include the payment of one-month salary arrears to state and local government workers totalling over N2.7bn.
The governor was also said to have approved the payment of two months pension arrears owed to state and local government workers totalling N1.5bn, as well as N100m monthly gratuity payment to state pensioners and an increment of the current N50m monthly gratuity to local government pensioners to N100m.
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World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is a globally recognised awareness day, officially designated by the United Nations in 2012.
It falls on March 21 each year, a date chosen to symbolise the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome, which is responsible for Down syndrome.
The theme for this year’s WDSD campaign 2024, as reported on the WDSD website, is “End the Stereotype.”
This theme underscores the importance of challenging and dismantling stereotypes associated with Down syndrome, promoting acceptance, and fostering a more inclusive society.
According Online in this report highlights 10 key things to know when caring for people with Down syndrome.
Taking care of individuals with Down syndrome involves addressing their unique needs, providing support, and fostering their development and independence.
Here are some key aspects of caring for people with Down syndrome:
1. Medical Care:
Regular medical check-ups and screenings are essential for managing the health concerns associated with Down syndrome. This includes monitoring for heart defects, vision and hearing impairments, thyroid disorders, and other medical conditions. Prompt intervention and treatment can help prevent complications and improve quality of life.
2. Early Intervention:
Early intervention programmes, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and developmental interventions, are crucial for addressing developmental delays and promoting skill development in children with Down syndrome. Starting interventions as early as possible can significantly improve outcomes and enhance independence.
3. Education:
Individuals with Down syndrome benefit from inclusive education programmes that provide appropriate support and accommodations to meet their learning needs. Special education services, individualised education plans (IEPs), and support from teachers, therapists, and aides can help facilitate academic progress and social development.
4. Social support:
Building strong social connections and fostering relationships with family, friends, and peers is important for individuals with Down syndrome. Encouraging participation in social activities, community events, and support groups can help combat isolation and promote social inclusion.
5. Independence skills:
Supporting individuals with Down syndrome in developing life skills and independence is crucial for their long-term well-being. This includes teaching self-care skills such as dressing, grooming, and hygiene, as well as practical skills such as cooking, money management, and using public transportation.
6. Emotional support:
Individuals with Down syndrome may experience emotions and mental health challenges similar to those of the general population. Providing emotional support, encouragement, and reassurance can help build resilience and self-esteem. Counselling or therapy may be beneficial for addressing emotional issues or behavioural challenges.
7. Encouraging participation:
Encouraging participation in recreational activities, hobbies, and interests can enrich the lives of individuals with Down syndrome and help them develop talents and pursue passions. Providing opportunities for physical activity, creative expression, and cultural experiences can enhance overall well-being.
8. Advocacy:
Advocating for the rights, inclusion, and equal opportunities of individuals with Down syndrome is essential for promoting their dignity and autonomy. This includes advocating for access to education, healthcare, employment, housing, and community services, as well as challenging stereotypes and discrimination.
9. Family support:
Providing support and resources for families of individuals with Down syndrome is vital for their well-being and resilience. Family support groups, respite care services, and educational resources can help families navigate the challenges and celebrate the joys of raising a child with Down syndrome.
10. Respect and dignity:
Above all, treating individuals with Down syndrome with respect, dignity, and unconditional love is fundamental to their care. Recognising their unique strengths, abilities, and contributions to society fosters a culture of acceptance and inclusion for people of all abilities.
According to the World Health Organisation, people with Down syndrome are unique individuals with their own personalities, talents, and strengths.
It’s essential to recognise and celebrate the diversity within the Down syndrome community and to foster a culture of acceptance, respect, and inclusion for all individuals, regardless of ability.
According HealthWise, in this 2023 report, examined the difficulties of parenting children with this health condition by speaking with parents and guardians of special needs children.
In another report, our correspondent, last year, spoke with the Executive Director of Morainbow Down Syndrome Foundation and President of Save Down Syndrome Inc., Adetola Makinde, on the challenges and benefits of raising children with Down Syndrome.
The Jigawa State Commissioner of Police, AT Abdullahi, has decorated 17 senior police officers who were elevated from the rank of Deputy Superintendents of Police to the substantive rank of Superintendents of Police.
In a statement on Thursday, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Lawan Adam, said the event was held at the state command headquarters in Dutse.
He said the promotion was a result of the Inspector General of Police’s recommendation and approval of the Police Service Commission.
He listed the promoted officers decorated with new ranks as Adamu Babangida, Mohammed Shuaibu, Babangida Dandare, Muawiyya Idris, Ahmed Mudi, Muhammad Walama Sa’idu, Bala Babayo, Basiru Muhammed and Ibrahim Musa.
Other officers are: Hafizu Lawan Mohammed, Muhammad Abubakar, Baba Ali, Musa Amana Rabiu, Saidu Jatau, Yusuf Yakubu, Alhaji Ashahabu and Dan’asabe Ali.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner of Police congratulated them on their recent promotion on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police.
He encouraged them to work diligently and maintain the highest level of professionalism and integrity in the discharge of their duties, as the Nigeria Police has confidence in them.
The CP urged the newly decorated senior officers to lead by example, inspire their subordinates, and work collaboratively with other security agencies to combat crime and maintain peace in the state.
In his vote of thanks on behalf of the newly promoted Officers, SP Ahmed Mudi, expressed his profound gratitude to Almighty Allah for sparing our lives to witness this memorable occasion.
He then thanked the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the Police Service Commission, the Jigawa State Police Commissioner and the Management Team for finding them worthy of this promotion.
He further assured the CP of their readiness, devotion and dedication to serve their fatherland and Jigawa state in particular.
The Lagos State Government has apprehended two suspects accused of extorting traders and residents for using a pedestrian bridge in the Yaba area of the state.
The state Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this via his X handle on Thursday.
Wahab noted that the arrest was made in response to a viral video where the suspects were seen carrying out the act.
The suspects, whose identities were not disclosed were reported to have imposed N100 levy on each pedestrian with luggage.
The commissioner, who claimed to have ordered their immediate arrest, added that they would be charged to court.
He wrote, “In response to the viral video of some miscreants extorting traiders and other lagosians on a pedestrian bridge in Yaba, I instructed the Corps Marshal of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps @LAGESCOfficial to immediately arrest the persons and the officer involved.
“They will be arraigned immediately in court while the clampdown on those on the run would continue.”
Meanwhile, Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, on Tuesday, arrested no fewer than 63 people for allegedly crossing the highway and engaging in illegal street trading.
The state government had in February threatened to arrest and prosecute people crossing the major highways in the state rather than using the pedestrian bridges.
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The Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has cautioned media organisations against fake news and misleading reports ahead of the Edo and Ondo governorship elections.
Yakubu gave the caution at the first quarterly consultative meeting with media organisations in Abuja on Thursday.
The Edo governorship poll is scheduled to place place on September 21, 2024 and the Ondo governorship poll will be held on November 16, 2024.
Only 10 parties have uploaded the particulars of their candidates on INEC portal with only three days left to the deadline ahead of the Edo poll.
Seventeen out of 19 parties have indicated interest in participating in the Ondo governorship election.
Yakubu noted that INEC does not believe in censorship, adding that the antidote to fake news is greater openness and transparency.
“A very important reality in today’s age of information technology is the spread of fake news and misinformation instantly and on a global scale. As I said on many occasions, INEC does not believe in censorship. The best antidote to fake news is greater openness and transparency.
“It is in furtherance of this policy that the commission interfaces regularly with stakeholders through our regular consultative meetings. We appreciate our partnership with the media and I want to reassure you that INEC will continue to work closely with you. We welcome your reports, commentaries and analyses on elections in particular and electoral activities in general.
“More specifically, some of the innovations introduced by the commission to improve service delivery to the electorate, ensure the safety and security of journalists and grant them unimpeded access to various locations during elections and electoral activities draw from your reports as well as the suggestions and recommendations made during our quarterly meetings. I urge you to continue to be a bulwark against fake news and misleading narratives about the commission and its activities,” he said.
The INEC chairman urged media organisations to engage with political parties as well as their aspirants and report on the primaries with the same diligence and depth they report the main election conducted by INEC.
“Doing so will go a long way to strengthen our democracy since only the products of the party primaries are ultimately placed on the ballot paper for citizens to vote for in the main election.
“Party primaries are as important as the main election conducted by INEC,” he stated.
In his remarks, the President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Chris Isiguzo, stressed the importance of free, fair, and credible elections in the advancement of the country’s democratic governance.
Charging the media, Isiguzo said, “Let us recommit ourselves to the noble ideals of democracy, accountability, and civic responsibility.
“Let us work together to ensure that the forthcoming elections in Edo and Ondo states, as well as future elections, are conducted with the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and transparency.”
The Chinese Consul-General, Lagos, Yan Yuqing, has reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting the development of Nigeria’s education system.
The Chinese Consul-General said the embassy remains “steadfast in its support for education in Nigeria, as it is an important pillar for the country’s future development.”
She said this on Wednesday during the launching of the free Chinese Online Classroom Project donated by the Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zone in the Igbesa area of Ogun State.
Yuqing, while revealing that the project was in collaboration with the Chinese Ministry of Education, said the Free Trade Zone Online Chinese Classroom was a significant milestone in the cultural and economic collaboration between Nigeria and China.
She stated that the project complemented President Xi Jinping’s African development assistance, stressing that it “seeks to cultivate Chinese-speaking talents, bolster local economies, and foster mutual understanding.”
She added, “The online class aims to foster cultural exchange and strengthen Nigeria-China relations by offering Mandarin Chinese learning opportunities to tertiary students and interested individuals. With a focus on technology transfer, career enhancement, and global preparedness, the project signifies OGFTZ’s commitment to facilitating a positive environment for Nigerian and Chinese businesses”.
On his part, the Deputy General Manager of China-Africa Investment FZC, Kevin Liu, explained that the programme’s key component is to equip the university undergraduates and widen their chances in skill acquisition and economic empowerment.
He added that apart from the involvement of the academy environment, the locals who are interested in learning the Chinese language will also benefit from the programme.
“I want to thank the Chinese Consulate General for the support, the Chinese Ministry of Education, and the Ogun State government for the cooperation.
“We are very confident that the project will be successful and what we want is that the whole of Africa and Nigeria will benefit from it all,” he noted.
One of the project coordinators, Madame Wang Jinhong, said the project was to bridge the gap that existed between the workers and the experts, saying the aim is to transfer knowledge to the workers through learning the language.
She added that over 600 persons have registered for the class both physically and online.
She said, “We want to improve the technical skills of the workers, we want to be more localised. There is a gap between the knowledge and vocational skills, our target is to bridge the gap.”
The Ogun State Commissioner of Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, however, assured the Chinese of the government’s support.
Arigbabu noted the government is ready to accommodate the teaching of Chinese in its curriculum to improve knowledge as well as better opportunities and empowerment.
The Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, had in January vowed to strengthen its ties with Nigeria.
Jianchun said the year, symbolised by the dragon sign, would create an opportunity for China and Nigeria to strengthen their relationship through shared ambitions.
Other presence at the launching were; Professor Li Yonghe, President of Yunnan Agricultural University represented by Professor Wei Hongjiang; CEO of Guangdong New South Overseas Investment Holdings Co., Ltd, Mr Deng Yu; Vice President of China Glass Holdings Co., Ltd, Mr Cai Guo, and General Manager of Senda Group Nigeria Branc, Mr Song Bin.
World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is a global awareness day that has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012 on March 21.
According to the WDSD website, the date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.
According Online reports that the theme for this year’s campaign is “End the Stereotype.”
The Down’s Syndrome Foundation Nigeria, last week, lamented the non-inclusion of persons with intellectual disabilities in disability laws.
In this report, According Online culls opinions from the WDSD website where Down syndrome patients advocate the need to end the stereotype.
It read, “Stereotypes are harmful! For people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities, stereotypes can stop us from being treated like other people.
“We get treated like children. We are underestimated, and we are excluded.
“Sometimes we are treated very badly or even abused.”
Here are nine Down syndrome patients expressing their views:
Andrew from New Zealand said, “I used to work at a primary school. I was hoping to help with the school newsletters on the office computer.
“I presented my CV to the receptionist to show her what I can do. She asked me, ‘Who did this for you?’ I told her I did it. She did not believe that I made the CV, and she did not let me help her.”
Emma from the United Kingdom said, “I went to a clothes shop on my lunch break at work. I was looking at the different clothes.
“A lady who worked in the shop told me, ‘You aren’t going to buy anything, get out!’ I was so upset I couldn’t speak. I don’t deserve to be treated like that.”
Moyosore from Nigeria said, “I don’t like it when people look down at people with Down syndrome. On World Down Syndrome Day, we must come together with a common goal to change this.”
Muthoni from Kenya said, “Why do people think that people with Down syndrome can’t work? They also think we shouldn’t get paid! I work hard, and I deserve to be paid.”
Tia from the United States said, “I wanted to go to college, but because I have an intellectual disability, the only courses available to me were in ‘Life Skills’. I don’t want to go to college to learn to make my bed!”
Carlos from Mexico said, “People think that Down syndrome is a sickness. It is not! Down syndrome is a condition. We are like any other person. I want the world to see us for who we really are.”
Pearl from Switzerland said, “Some people think that people with Down syndrome can’t live ‘normal’ lives. That’s wrong! And what is ‘normal’ anyway?
“My life is similar to lots of my family and friends. I went to my local school, I’m involved in a local orchestra and the scouts. I am training to be a teaching assistant. All of this for me is ‘normal’, just like everyone else.”
Andrew from Australia said, “I am discriminated against because I have a disability. People don’t let me speak up for myself. But I can! I enjoy speaking to people about my life.”
Janet from Canada said, “People think that all people with Down syndrome are the same. We are not! My favourite thing is learning about different people and what they do.”
World Down Syndrome, special being
The United Nations officially recognised World Down Syndrome Day in 2011 and was first marked in 2012 to encourage member states, civil society organisations, and individuals to observe the day with activities and events that promote understanding and acceptance of people with Down syndrome.
Identifying whether someone has Down syndrome involves recognising certain physical characteristics and potential developmental or cognitive differences.
However, it’s important to note that not all individuals with Down syndrome will exhibit the same features, and the severity of characteristics can vary widely.
Additionally, the only way to definitively diagnose Down syndrome is through genetic testing.
Here are some common physical characteristics and developmental traits associated with Down syndrome that may aid in identification: distinctive facial features, low muscle tone (Hypotonia), short stature, and developmental delays among several others.
Much of the conversations regarding the sad and unwarranted attack on the men of the Nigerian Army in Okuama community of Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State have bordered around reprisal. Everyone seems concerned that the dead soldiers’ colleagues will go on a rampage. Several media reports that members of the Okuama community
The Premier League transfer window is always a frenzy of activity, with clubs vying for the world’s best talent.
With less than three months left, this year’s summer transfer window promises to be no different, with several exciting young stars and established performers rumoured to be on the move.
Here are six players who could light up the Premier League if they make the switch:
Victor Osimhen (Napoli)
Victor Osimhen (Napoli)
Premier League heavyweights Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea are all interested in signing Napoli star man Victor Osimhen.
Manchester United is anticipated to submit a bid during the forthcoming summer transfer window in an attempt to acquire Nigerian attacker Victor Osimhen.
Osimhen is at the top of Chelsea’s list, and they have been eager to add a quality centre-forward to their ranks for most of the season.
To get Osimhen to sign with Chelsea, reports claim that players like Didier Drogba and John Obi Mikel have been in constant communication with him.
Though additional information about Victor Osimhen’s release clause is still pending, reports in England claim that Arsenal has already had a meeting with the representative of the Napoli striker in an attempt to compete with Chelsea for his signature.
President Aurelio De Laurentiis acknowledged that when the Nigerian international signed a new contract with Napoli in December, he did so with full awareness that he would be leaving at the end of the current campaign.
While Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are also being linked to him, the Premier League appears to be his most likely destination.
Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich)
Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich)
Despite being a key player in Bayern Munich’s midfield, Jamal Musiala’s future with the club is uncertain. The 21-year-old German, who developed in the youth academies of Southampton and Chelsea, initially represented England at the under-21 level before deciding to play for the country of his birth.
Although Bayern Munich is eager to retain one of the brightest young talents in world football, recent reports suggest that they may be forced to let him go. Musiala is reportedly hesitant to sign a contract extension with the club after a disappointing season that cost the outgoing manager, Thomas Tuchel, his job.
This situation has alerted Musiala’s former club Chelsea, as well as Liverpool and Manchester City, who are interested in acquiring the talented midfielder. Bayern Munich’s inability to secure Musiala’s long-term commitment has opened the door for other top clubs to pursue him.
Alvaro Valles (Las Palmas)
Alvaro Valles (Las Palmas)
Top-quality goalkeepers are always in high demand, and the performances of Las Palmas goalkeeper Alvaro Valles, have not gone unnoticed.
At 26 years old, Valles was released by Real Betis as a youngster but joined the reserve team of his current club in 2018. He has gradually worked his way up through the ranks.
This season, Valles has played every minute in LaLiga, conceding only 32 goals in 29 appearances—the fourth-lowest total in the league. His impressive form has caught the attention of scouts from Arsenal and Aston Villa, who have been closely monitoring the Spanish goalkeeper.
Valles will evaluate his future options once the current campaign concludes. However, with Barcelona also expressing interest in the goalkeeper, the interested clubs must act swiftly to secure his services.
Jean-Clair Todibo (Nice)
Jean-Clair Todibo (Nice)
In France, Nice are on track to secure a continental qualification spot, largely due to having one of the best defences in Ligue 1 this season. The standout player in their formidable backline is 24-year-old Jean-Clair Todibo, who is being heavily linked with a summer transfer to Manchester United.
Todibo, a French international, joined Barcelona as a teenager but failed to make an impact in Catalonia. However, he now appears to be an elite centre-back. Manchester United’s new co-owner, Jim Ratcliffe, also holds a controlling stake in the French club, which could logically facilitate a deal.
However, recent reports suggest that senior officials at Nice will reject any inquiries for their talisman, hinting at a potential saga surrounding Todibo’s future.
Despite Manchester United’s interest and the ownership connection, Nice seem determined to keep their star defender, setting the stage for a potential transfer tussle.
Ederson (Atalanta)
Ederson (Atalanta)
According to reports from Italy, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are gearing up for a transfer battle over Atalanta’s midfielder Ederson. The 24-year-old Brazilian has been one of the standout defensive midfielders in Serie A this season, ranking second for completed tackles (69) and sixth overall for interceptions (33) among central midfielders.
However, Ederson’s abilities extend beyond just tackling, as evidenced by his five league goals and impressive passing statistics.
The bidding for the Brazilian is expected to start at £30 million, and Tottenham are currently in the driving seat due to their likely qualification for European football next season.
Nevertheless, it would be unwise to count out the wealthy Newcastle United, who are planning a busy summer transfer window with multiple new arrivals at St. James’ Park.
Despite Tottenham’s advantage in terms of European qualification, Newcastle’s financial muscle could make them a formidable competitor in the pursuit of Ederson’s signature.
Santiago Gimenez (Feyenoord)
Santiago Gimenez (Feyenoord)
Over the years, many players from the Dutch Eredivisie have made the move to the Premier League, with varying degrees of success. The next potential star to leap the Dutch top flight could be Santiago Gimenez, who has been in prolific form for Feyenoord this season.
With an impressive tally of 24 goals in 35 games across all competitions, it is unsurprising that the Mexican international has been linked with clubs like Arsenal, Tottenham, and West Ham United.
West Ham reportedly considered a move for Gimenez during the January transfer window, but no deal materialised. However, the Hammers are said to maintain a strong interest in the striker.
One potential deterrent for interested clubs could be Feyenoord’s hefty asking price for Gimenez, which is reported to be over £50 million.
While Gimenez’s goal-scoring exploits have garnered attention from Premier League clubs, his valuation could prove to be a significant obstacle in any potential transfer negotiations.
The Ondo State Police Command, on Wednesday, said it had arrested a 17-year-old girl, simply identified as Wumi, for allegedly stabbing her foster mother, Mrs Funmilayo Adelayi, to death.
The incident, which reportedly happened at Oda, Akure residence of the deceased, occurred last Wednesday.
It was gathered that the lifeless body of the deceased, who was said to be working at the Ondo State Ministry of Finance, was found at her residence decomposing last Sunday, three days after she was killed.
A neighbour of the deceased, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said she was stabbed in her belly area, and the doors were shut against her to prevent her from getting any help.
“There was blood everywhere from her bedroom to the living room as she struggled to get out and find help, but because the doors were shut against her, she could not make it,” he said.
“The knife her attacker used to kill her was found beside her. This is really very sad.”
Another source said the remains of the deceased had been deposited at the morgue of a hospital in Akure.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mrs Funmilayo Odunlami, said the deceased’s family claimed that the suspect was suffering from mental illness, but the command had not received the medical report to affirm the claim.
The PPRO said, “The suspect is in our custody, and we have started an investigation into the matter, but the family told us that the suspect had a mental health issue. So, we are waiting for the medical report to ascertain that.
“The deceased is a foster mother of the suspect; she had been taking care of her since her childhood.”
